Thinking Out Loud

How to Approach the Communication Styles Framework

Do You Know What I Mean?—Discovering Your Personal Communication Style was published one year ago. I’ve enjoyed having contact with many new people as a result of publishing this book and gotten a lot of worthwhile, positive feedback—all of which is gratifying.

During the past year I’ve also noticed a pattern to the questions and comments I’ve received, which has helped me become more efficient and focused in giving direction with the communication styles framework. So let me summarize by making a few bullet points:

  • Start by focusing on the interpersonal and interpersonal—which one is stronger? Once you develop familiarity with the inter- and intra-, it’s easy to relate to the whole concept.
  • Yes, all seven communication components are actively engaged all the time when you are talking with anyone.
  • You likely have a few components that dominate your style and are easy to be aware of. The others are more elusive. That’s okay.
  • Don’t try too hard to figure out other people’s styles. By focusing more on yourself, you’ll naturally pick up on cues about others.
  • The more grounded you are in the CS framework, the more irrelevant the male/female communication stereotypes become.
  • Workplace collaboration naturally grows from using the CS framework.

Working with the communication styles framework is actually fun. Noticing individual differences naturally creates more patience and results in better overall communication.

I really enjoy getting questions and comments. Please keep them coming.

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